Roof Repair and Replacement

Despite tell-tale warning signs, many homeowners wait too long to repair or replace a worn-out, damaged roof, hoping against all hope that it will magically somehow fix itself. In the counseling world, it’s called denial.

Patching leaks and replacing damaged shingles are good stop-gap measures. But every roof eventually wears out its usefulness. Find out whether it’s time for a roof repair or a roof replacement and the kinds of roofing materials that offer the best savings.

A roof should last up to 20 years, depending on the local climate, materials and workmanship. Climates that experience extreme weather conditions from heat and snow need roof replacement and repair more often than those with more mild weather.

So, how do you know when it’s time to replace your roof? Here are a few signs:

You have your boss over for dinner and during the salad course your ceiling caves in and that stuffed moose head plunges from the attic and crashes on the table.

Your expensive distressed Italian paint in the living room has an uninvited buckle bulging from the corner where the wall meets the ceiling.

After a light breeze, your driveway is littered with broken roof tiles, splintered wooden shingles, or scraps of tar paper.

Performing a Roof Replacement

A leak alone is a sign a roof repair is needed but not always proof that you need a totally new roof. The first thing to do when your roof is beyond a simple repair is round up estimates from contractors. Beware of any contractor that won’t inspect your roof and prepare an estimate for a fee.

You can also ask for estimates for a range of materials. Generally speaking, the materials, in order of lowest cost to highest are, asphalt shingles, fiberglass, laminated shingles, hand-split shakes, and slate.

In addition to providing protection for your home, there are other advantages to roof restoration. Ask contractors about each of the materials and how a replacement can contribute to energy savings, improved aesthetics, curb appeal, and home value. Wood materials require more care from a leaking roof and maintenance than other options, but you can’t deny the superior appearance.

Composite roofing can be built from clay, rock, resins, and glass for added resistance to fire, moisture and rot, and increase durability. Every kind of roofing has its strengths and limitations. There are roofing shingles that come with 30-year warranties. Depending on your budget and how long you plan to remain in the house, you’ll find the appropriate restoration solution if you do your homework.